There is also a reasonably new chain in the north called Amber Taverns. They are cheaper than Wetherspoons but not quite as cheap as Sams, although, like Spoons, they generally have one real ale that is very cheap.
I've heard of these: (http://www.ambertaverns.co.uk). They have 65 pubs, which is about the same as what Bateman's have. They seem to be selling the Scottish & Newcastle range, so probably have a deal with them.
DB.
There's a few in my neck of the woods, under the Last Orders brand. They seem to specialise in taking over closed or nearly closed dives and turning them round. Lots of sport on telly and cheap beer. Not being snobby but they're low rent.
